defining factor

USAGE SUMMARY

"defining factor" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when referring to something that gives a definition or boundary to a situation, group, or idea. For example, "A strong culture of customer service is a defining factor of success for many businesses."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

40 human-written examples

From the start, Mr. Johnson, a moderate Democrat, sought to portray himself as a rainmaker for South Dakota, calling his seat on the Appropriations Committee a defining factor in the race.

The New York Times

Faith has been a defining factor in Fox's life.

The Washington Post

That said, neither Clinton nor her politics can be its defining factor.

The Guardian - Opinion

But the limitations of the New Amsterdam chorus were the defining factor.

The New York Times

The answer could be a defining factor in the outcome of the fiercely contested presidential election.

The New York Times

For Rise Against, that relentless earnestness is both a defining factor and a limitation.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

20 human-written examples

Legality is the most well defined factor involved in decisions about drinking.

Huffington Post

Takahashi, K. et al. Induction of pluripotent stem cells from adult human fibroblasts by defined factors.

Nature

Park, I.-H. et al. Reprogramming of human somatic cells to pluripotency with defined factors.

Nature

Vierbuchen, T. et al. Direct conversion of fibroblasts to functional neurons by defined factors.

Nature

Lewitzky, M. & Yamanaka, S. Reprogramming somatic cells towards pluripotency by defined factors.

Nature

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "defining factor", ensure that the factor you are describing truly sets something apart or is fundamentally important to its nature. Be specific about why it is defining.

Common error

Avoid using "defining factor" for elements that are merely contributory or secondary. Reserve it for aspects that are truly essential and determinative.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "defining factor" functions as a noun phrase that identifies a key element or characteristic that determines the nature or essence of something. It is used to single out the most important aspect, as supported by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

81%

Science

12%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "defining factor" is a commonly used and grammatically correct term that highlights the most crucial aspect of something. As confirmed by Ludwig, it serves to emphasize a key element or characteristic. Predominantly found in news and media contexts, it's also appropriate for scientific and business environments. When using this phrase, ensure that the identified factor truly sets the subject apart. While the phrase is valuable, it's important to avoid overstating the significance of lesser elements by reserving the phrase for aspects that are genuinely essential and determinative.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

key determinant

Replaces "factor" with "determinant", emphasizing the decisive role.

critical element

Substitutes "defining" with "critical", highlighting the importance.

essential component

Uses "component" instead of "factor", focusing on the integral part.

primary influence

Replaces "defining factor" with a phrase that focuses on impact.

main characteristic

Shifts from "factor" to "characteristic", emphasizing a distinctive feature.

most important aspect

Highlights the significance by using "most important" instead of "defining".

crucial variable

Emphasizes a changeable element that significantly affects the outcome.

decisive consideration

Focuses on the conclusive aspect of the element.

fundamental attribute

Highlights a basic or essential quality.

central feature

Emphasizes the core or focal point of something.

FAQs

How can I use "defining factor" in a sentence?

Use "defining factor" to highlight the most important aspect or characteristic of something. For example, "Customer service is a "defining factor" in the success of many businesses".

What can I say instead of "defining factor"?

You can use alternatives like "key determinant", "critical element", or "essential component" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "defining factor" in formal writing?

Yes, "defining factor" is suitable for formal writing. It is commonly used in academic, professional, and journalistic contexts to emphasize a crucial element.

What's the difference between ""defining factor"" and "important factor"?

"Defining factor" implies that the factor is essential and determinative, setting something apart. "Important factor" simply means the factor is significant but not necessarily the most crucial or distinctive.